New IT training methodology focuses on measurable performance improvement
New IT training methodology focuses on measurable performance improvement
Keywords: Computer training, Competences, Training management
ARIS, a leading provider of enterprise solutions including IT consulting,software and education, has launched Performance Improvement Consulting, an IT education solution based on a consulting model. The proprietary methodology aims to ensure that staff receive measurable, effective performance improvement.
"Successful organizations understand that to obtain the maximum return from their investment in IT it is no longer sufficient to train personnel reactively on their immediate needs", says Hugh Simpson-Wells, managing director, ARIS."They need to define an education policy that has, at its core, a methodology for analysis, knowledge transfer and re-analysis, ensuring long-term effective use of IT solutions."
The emphasis of the programme is the assessment of the objectives of the organization and the skills requirements of the individuals within it. Education is then delivered through a variety of media, according to the needs and working patterns of the individuals within the organization. Continual re-analysis not only identifies ongoing needs, but also provides a measure of the value of the whole education process.
Performance improvement begins with face-to-face meetings to determine the organization's present and planned IT infrastructure. At this stage, a picture is built up of the general education requirements, the existing facilities and knowledge sources. Next, ARIS evaluates the employees' capabilities using e-Val,a proprietary ARIS process that, using Web-based tools, measures an individual's ability to perform required tasks. Using data from the meetings and the e-Val process, competency gaps in job functions are identified. By understanding these gaps, detailed knowledge transfer requirements can be highlighted, allowing the client to target their IT training cost-effectively and accurately. The knowledge transfer plan focuses training recommendations on those specific areas needed to improve job performance. A variety of training methods may be recommended including any or all of the following: self-study guides,instructor-led training, online training, mentoring, project-based workshops,custom labs and private classes. The ongoing effectiveness of the education programme is continuously evaluated - in the short term to provide a simple measure of knowledge retention and, importantly, in the long term to establish that personnel truly understand how to apply their knowledge in their job. This not only identifies what top-up or further knowledge transfer may be required,but also provides a measure of proof of worth of the programme.
For further information, contact Paul Trendall at ARIS. Tel: 01865 315200;Fax: 01865 315201; E-mail: Paul.Trendall@aris.com
